February is Gallbladder Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about this rare but aggressive disease. While gallbladder cancer can affect individuals of any age, it disproportionately impacts older adults. At Minneapolis Radiation Oncology, we specialize in fighting cancer with radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy. For over 40 years, MRO has worked closely with a patient’s medical oncology team to create a comprehensive treatment plan for the best possible outcome.
Challenges in Treating Gallbladder Cancer in the Elderly
The treatment of gallbladder cancer in the elderly presents several challenges. Older patients are more likely to have coexisting medical conditions that may complicate surgical procedures. The physiological changes associated with aging can make older individuals more susceptible to the side effects of treatment.
When is Radiotherapy an effective treatment option?
Radiotherapy, the use of high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells, is a recognized treatment option for gallbladder cancer used as a primary treatment modality for patients who are not surgical candidates or as an additional therapy after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.
What are the benefits and side effects?
Radiotherapy offers several potential benefits for patients with gallbladder cancer including improved disease control and symptom relief. Radiotherapy can effectively target and destroy cancer cells, improving local control and potentially reducing the risk of recurrence. Radiotherapy can also help alleviate symptoms such as pain and weight loss, improving the patient’s quality of life. Radiotherapy can also cause side effects, such as fatigue, skin irritation, and diarrhea. However, these side effects are usually temporary and can be managed with supportive care. Talk to your Minneapolis Radiation Oncology care team on how radiotherapy can benefit you and managing your side effects.
Types of Radiotherapy
At Minneapolis Radiation Oncology, we offer various methods of radiotherapy to treat gallbladder cancer. The most common type is External Beam Radiotherapy.
It uses a machine outside the body to aim high-energy beams of radiation at the tumor. The linear accelerator machine moves around the patient, delivering radiation from different angles to maximize the dose to the tumor while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues.
What to Expect at Minneapolis Radiation Oncology
Minneapolis Radiation Oncology delivers the precise radiation therapy that a patient needs using state-of-the-art technology close to home with 11 locations. Our team of certified radiation oncologists, physicists, dosimetrists, nurses, and therapists are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality of care and support. Contact Minneapolis Radiation Oncology to learn more about your treatment options.
